8 Cleaning and Organization Tips For Pet Parents

The problem is that shedding, dirty paws, and the occasional accident may have you feeling like you have to choose either your best friend or a clean house.

But you don’t have to choose between loving your pet and keeping your home clean and neat. With the right products and mindset, you can have both.

Here’s how. 

Cover Up His Favorite Lounging Spots

Throw an old blanket or towel over the places where your pet likes to relax. Whenever it gets dirty, all you have to do is throw it in the wash. Of course, it helps if you have some extras on hand to swap out.

Use a Lint Roller

A good lint roller (like these from  Scotch-Brite) is an essential tool for cleaning pet hair and dander from upholstery and clothing. Get a collection of them and hang them from string or ribbon in convenient parts of the house.

Create a Paw Washing Station

Keep a doormat, a few towels, and a spray bottle of water in your entranceway so you can quickly clean your pet’s feet whenever she comes indoors; This is an easy way to reduce the amount of dirt that she tracks into your home.

Clean Stains Right Away

Keep a good stain/odor remover on hand at all times, so you’re not caught by surprise when your pet has an accident (which sometimes happens, even with the most well-trained pet). This specially-formulated cleaner from Skout’s Honor is a great choice.

Choose the Right Materials for Home Decor

If possible, upgrade your furniture to top-grain leather, microfiber, or microsuede, as these are most effective for repelling pet stain and odor. Look for materials that are heavy and tightly woven. For best results, choose colors similar to that of your pet’s fur.

Of course, the best way to keep your sofa clean is by providing your pet his own comfy, relaxing space so that he avoids your furniture completely. A SlumberPod is appealing enough that your dog will happily use it instead of the couch.

Keep Nails Trimmed

Your dog’s sharp nails can scratch up your floors and upholstery. Avoid this damage with regular pedicures. These Zen Nail Clippers can make the task feel less like a chore.

Use a Tray For Your Pet’s Eating Area

One of the messiest areas of your home is likely to be where your pet’s food bowl is. Placing a sturdy tray or even just a laminated placemat under his eating area makes it easy to clean up those small bits of dropped food or slops of water.

Stick to a Grooming Schedule

Keeping your pet clean is the most effective way to keep your house clean, too. The less dirt and dander your pet carries around with her, the less of it ends up on your rugs and upholstery. There’s no need to use pet shampoo every time; just a quick wash in plain water can make all the difference. Ensure you dry your pet thoroughly or confine her to a specified area until she’s dry to reduce post-bath odor around your house.

Keep these tips in mind, and you can enjoy the company of your beloved pet without sacrificing a clean, tidy living space for both of you.